The free-agent class of 2013 might lack the star quality of last summer, when Ryan Suter and Zach Parise captivated the hockey world right through Independence Day -- spoiling picnic plans from coast to coast -- but what this years crop lacks in profile, it more than makes up for in motivation.

Placed on waivers by the Toronto Maple Leafs, defenseman Mike Komisarek appears headed for the AHL. TSN's Bob McKenzie suggests the press box regular won't be claimed by another NHL team before Thursday's deadline".

Jim Rutherford and Dave Nonis may have a fair bit to talk about these days. A deal forged between the general managers of the Carolina Hurricanes and Toronto Maple Leafs, respectively, would come as no surprise in the next two to three weeks.